When it comes to restoring your smile and enhancing the health of your teeth, dental inlays and onlays play a pivotal role. These restorative treatments are designed to repair severely decayed teeth that need more than a dental filling but are not yet to the point of needing a dental crown. The key difference between the two lies in the area of the tooth they cover. Inlays fit within the biting surface of a tooth, while onlays extend over one or more of the cusps of the tooth.
The Process of Getting Inlays and Onlays
The procedure for receiving an inlay or onlay typically involves two dental visits. During the first visit, Dr. Haley Miller removes the decay or old filling material and prepares the tooth for the inlay or onlay. An impression of the tooth is then taken and sent to a dental lab, where the inlay or onlay is crafted from a composite material. At the second appointment, the temporary is removed and our dentist will check the fit of the inlay or onlay before bonding it to the tooth with a strong adhesive. The restoration is then polished to ensure a smooth and natural feel.
Advantages of Inlays and Onlays
Choosing inlays or onlays over traditional fillings or crowns can offer several benefits:
- Durability: Made from sturdy materials, inlays and onlays can withstand chewing forces well and last longer than standard fillings.
- Conservation of Tooth Structure: These restorations require the removal of less tooth structure than crowns, preserving more of the natural tooth.
- Aesthetics: Inlays and onlays are crafted to match the natural color of your teeth, blending seamlessly with your smile.
- Fit: They provide a better fit and are less likely to stain over time compared to composite fillings.
Are Inlays and Onlays Right for You?
Our dentist will evaluate your situation and discuss the best options for restoring your teeth. Ideal candidates for inlays and onlays are those with sufficient tooth structure who require a durable and cosmetic solution to tooth decay or damage.
Dental inlays and onlays offer a middle ground between fillings and crowns for patients looking to restore their teeth’s function and appearance. By choosing this treatment, you can enjoy a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution that maintains as much of your natural tooth as possible. If you believe your smile could benefit from a dental inlay or onlay in Madisonville, Louisiana, consult with us to explore your options and take the first step toward a healthier, more radiant smile. Give us a call at 985-845-3120 today.
985-845-3120